Barrio Chihuahuita, El Paso's oldest neighborhood, has served for centuries as a vital passageway for Mexican immigrants—earning it the name "Ellis Island of the West." For generations, this community has been a sanctuary for those seeking refuge and opportunity, preserving Mexican traditions through its language, architecture, and cultural celebrations. Its rich, transnational history is embedded in landmarks like the historic El Paso Laundry and the writings of Doña Ramona González. Today, however, the neighborhood's historic character and its residents face multiple threats, including forced displacement, gentrification, border militarization, and decades of under-investment. These challenges reflect a broader pattern of inequity in historic preservation across the United States.

"For centuries, the people of Chihuahuita have embodied resilience, making it a living testament to the oldest neighborhood in El Paso. This historic community continues to be a powerful symbol of the enduring spirit of the Borderlands."

— Sehila Mota Casper, Executive Director, Latinos in Heritage Conservation